My research has focused on the role of stable dispositional characteristics that are associated with maladaptive health-related perceptions and behaviors. Initial studies found that individuals who scored low on measures of trait anxiety (i.e. who tend to be complacent in the face of threatening situations) took significantly longer than others to recognize the seriousness of developing cancer symptoms and thus seek help. On the other hand, those cancer survivors who scored high on the same measures of trait anxiety (i.e. who tend toward excessive worry and negative rumination) reported significantly poorer quality of life 2-5 years following treatment. Additional research has found that higher endogenous testosterone levels in males are associated with tendencies to minimize the significance of unfavorable health information. Findings from these studies will inform future efforts to educate and motivate the public toward more adaptive health-related behaviors.

Funded Research Projects
NHLBI(PI):Promoting Uptake of a Usual Source of Care among African American MenNHLBI(Key Personnel):Treatment of Functional Impairment in Patients with Heart Failure and Comorbid Depression